Winchester University among the first to list sexual identity as part of new practice

WINCHESTER University has become one of the first educational establishments to create a website listing members’ sexual orientation.

The OUTlist is one of the first of its kind in the UK which lists some of the students’ and staff members’ according to their sexual preference.

Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Elizabeth Stuart, said: “The OUTlist is a common feature at universities in the USA but it’s a relatively new scheme here in the UK.

“The list is another example of the University’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. We hope that it will foster a culture in which everyone feels that their contributions are valued and help encourage new students and staff to join the University community.”

Staff and students have also been celebrating same-sex marriages by flying a Rainbow flag from the roof of the West Downs Centre on Romsey Road.

Parliament passed legislation to allow same-sex marriage in England and Wales in July last year which saw the first same-sex marriages taking place on Saturday (29 March).

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Sarah-Louise Collins, co-chair of the LGBTI network at the University of Winchester, said: “We look forward to celebrating the momentous occasion when civil marriages for same-sex couples comes into effect.

“It’s important that institutions recognise this decisive victory and we’re delighted that the university is taking a strong stance in support.”

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